Kon Knueppel emerging as potential NBA Draft lottery pick with translatable skills

A major part of Duke’s top-ranked 2024 recruiting class, Kon Knueppel has burst onto the scene since the preseason hype surrounding him reached mainstream basketball media. Despite a long list of high school accolades, the 6-foot-5 shooting guard had to prove himself in front of a national stage before jumping into the NBA Draft lottery conversation.

Knueppel was ranked the No. 19 player in the 2024 recruiting class and the No. 5 shooting guard, according to the On3 Industry Rankings. Now, he ranks No. 12 on the latest On3 NBA Draft Big Board and No. 3 among shooting guards.

The Wisconsin native has remained among the most underrated prospects, being snubbed of a McDonald’s All-American spot despite standout EYBL numbers and a clear spot as the top player in Wisconsin.

Now looking to step out of Cooper Flagg’s shadow, Kon Knueppel has shown in waves the many traits which will translate to NBA success for years to come.

Breaking down Kon Knueppel

The obvious skill for Kon Knueppel comes on the offensive end, where he knocks down jump shots from all over the floor. Smooth mechanics and a long track record of high percentages build hope that he will be an elite 3-point shooter regardless of the competition level.

In his freshman season at Duke, Knueppel has started by averaging 12.2 points, 3.5 rebounds and 3.2 assists. He is currently shooting just 34.5-percent from 3 after a recent cold streak, but continues shooting 95.2-percent from the free throw line.

He has also shown consistency on the defensive end guarding his position and staying within a team construct. While he does not possess the athleticism to guard many guards in space, his intangibles have served him well to this point.

That lack of athleticism does provide him with a ceiling at the next level. However, in the range which he promises to be drafted, most teams are looking for a role player capable of complimenting the stars on the roster. Knueppel’s early returns at Duke show that he can not only maximize his game, but raise the level of a projected No. 1 pick.